A colossal landslide has compelled the evacuation of 12 residences along Peartree Lane, adjacent to a ravine in Rolling Hills Estates.
The evacuation was confirmed by Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn through a Tweet, stating, “I’m currently in Rolling Hills Estates where multiple homes are under severe threat due to a major landslide.”
Hahn further mentioned that the Los Angeles County Fire Department had mandated the evacuations.
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Lomita Station deputies were assigned to patrol the neighborhood “in order to maintain the security of the evacuated residences,” as per Hahn’s statement on Twitter.
Accompanying the supervisor’s Tweet were several photos showcasing the precarious situation of the homes.
“Although not clearly captured in this photo, there are homes here in Rolling Hills Estates that are visibly tilting — like this garage — as a result of the landslide,” she tweeted. “I had the opportunity to speak with the affected residents who are being evacuated. Fortunately, everyone is safe for now, but these homes are currently too unstable to enter. I have already reached out to our Public Works Director, Mark Pastrella, and we are extending our complete support to the city and its residents.”
Local residents and authorities detected the significant land movement around 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Shortly after, the residents were promptly evacuated.
Electricity in the area has been disconnected and utility crews ensured that no gas or power lines were disrupted.
The American Red Cross has been assisting in finding shelter for the displaced families.
The cause of the landslide remains unclear.
